Rain forecast raises concerns in flooded western Manitoba

Heavy rain has worsened flooding in western Manitoba, where up to 150 people have left their homes in the Swan Valley West area after severe storms hit on Sunday. Minitonas, about 370 kilometres northwest of Winnipeg, recorded about 148 millimetres of rain in just a few hours, according to Environment and Climate Change Canada. Officials say highways in the region have been washed out or damaged, including sections near Swan River and Minitonas, making travel difficult and blocking access to some communities. Manitoba Hydro is working to restore power, while local municipalities have declared states of emergency and issued evacuationrelated advisories in some areas. Provincial and local authorities are monitoring the situation as more storms are expected. Meteorologists say additional heavy rain, strong winds, hail and possible tornadoes remain a threat across southern Manitoba and southeast Saskatchewan, which could add to the flooding and slow recovery efforts.